For decades in Lexington, the term "McDonald's All-American" was almost exclusively reserved for the men's program. We got used to the "Burger Boys" rolling into Rupp Arena in waves while the women's program fought for scraps. Kenny Brooks has officially flipped that script.
In a massive flex of recruiting muscle, Brooks has "secured the bag" for the Class of 2026, landing a historic haul that will bring three McDonald's All-Americans to Memorial Coliseum. For context on how elite that is: Only the Texas Longhorns can claim to have that many in this cycle.
The "Burger Girls" Trio
Brooks didn't just get good players; he got the headliners. According to the ESPNW Next 100 rankings, Kentucky is bringing in a trio of top-25 talent that immediately transforms the roster's future:
- No. 13 Maddyn Greenway: The electric guard from Providence Academy (MN) who can score from anywhere.
- No. 19 Savannah "Savvy" Swords: A versatile 6-foot-2 forward from Long Island Lutheran (NY) who brings elite size and skill.
- No. 23 Emily McDonald: A 6-foot guard from The St. James Performance Academy (VA) who adds even more firepower to the backcourt.
Solving the depth crisis
This haul isn't just about star power; it's about survival. If you have watched Kentucky this season, you know the story: The starting five is dangerous, but the depth has been razor-thin. Brooks has had to ride his stars' heavy minutes just to stay competitive. Reinforcements aren't just coming; they are stampeding.
When you add this 2026 trio to last year's McDonald's All-American signee, Kaelyn Carroll (ranked No. 18 in her class), you are looking at a roster stacked with four bona fide superstars. That is the kind of depth that wins championships in March.
That is, if he can keep them all together. Last year, Clara Silva was in Lexington, and had she been this year, that 3-game losing streak probably doesn't happen.
So getting to campus is step 1, keeping them is step 2.
The future is now
Kenny Brooks was hired to elevate this program back to national relevance, and he is doing it at warp speed.
To go head-to-head with powerhouses like Texas and come away with a matching haul of All-Americans sends a clear message to the rest of the SEC: The Wildcats aren't a one-season wonder; they are here to stay.
If Brooks can keep this core intact, the lights in Lexington are about to get a whole lot brighter.